WINTER SWIM: Participants take a chill

January 16, 2013

For the 12th year, the annual Polar Bear Swim in Silver Creek has made a difference for Variety Kids at Women & Children's Hospital in Buffalo, the Silver Creek Emergency Squad, Sunset Bay Volunteer Fire Department and the Silver Creek Food Pantry. More than 100 people went from 60-degree weather to 37-degree water to raise thousands of dollars.

"I do this to help the kids," said Dunkirk participant Denise Wolnik, who on her own raised more than $4,600. "I will do anything to help the Kids' Club."

Once out of the water, participants and onlookers took part in a chili cook-off, wine tasting and entertainment as part of the springlike day.